Ways To Protect Children’s Smiles

December 29, 2017

Prevention is an essential part of kids keeping a healthy smile. Good oral hygiene habits developed at a young age can protect smiles. Brushing and flossing at home and visiting your dentist at least twice a year are both critical components to good oral hygiene. Options such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments can also play a preventative and protective role for your children’s smiles. Helping kids learn to eat and drink mindfully can also play an important role in protecting smiles.

Hygiene Habits

Think about how you often wish you had developed some habits when you were younger. Instilling good habits young increases the likelihood that the habits will carry into adulthood. Brushing and flossing should be done effectively at least twice a day for everybody. It may be important that you monitor the brushing and flossing until you are sure that your child is doing them both correctly. Children’s toothbrushes and floss with their favorite colors or characters can be great ways to encourage fun hygiene sessions. Checkups and cleanings with your dentist should happen at least twice a year. Creating a good relationship between your child and the dentist starts at a young age.

Sealants and Fluoride Treatments

Your dentist may recommend protective steps like dental sealants or fluoride treatments for your child. Dental sealants are thin, protective plastic coats applied directly to the surfaces of clean teeth. The sealants help to prevent bacteria, plaque, and tartar from causing tooth decay and cavities. Dental sealants are not a replacement for good habits, but they can help defend against potentially bad habits that children may have. Fluoride treatments are also applied directly to the teeth. Fluoride can help remineralize and strengthen the enamel of the teeth. Strong enamel can protect the tooth against decay and damage.

Mindful Eating and Drinking

Again, good habits can be easier to get into at a younger age. If your child can learn to balance fun sugary snacks and drinks with plenty of water and healthy nutrition, it can increase the chances of maintaining a healthy smile.

We Are Here to Help Protect Your Child’s Smile

Smile protection is important at any age. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-764-1018. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, and all surrounding communities.